UMaine Study Aims to Fight Childhood Obesity

Researchers at the University of Maine are leading a study to determine how cooking can combat childhood obesity. The project is called iCook. Throughout the two-year study, some participants will take classes on topics such as proper food handling, nutrition groups and structured meal times. They will also have access to a website to track their progress. Researchers are hoping to determine the impact the classes have on the body mass index of the participants. The study is designed to improve culinary skills and promote family meals. The $2.5 million U.S. Department of Agriculture study is also being done in Nebraska, South Dakota, Tennessee and West Virginia.